Novo Nordisk, The United Bio-Technology ink pact for 'triple G' obesity drug

United Biotechnology recently completed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 1b trial in China designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of multiple subcutaneous injections of UBT251 in people with overweight or obesity.

A total of 36 patients were enrolled in three different dose groups (1mg, 1mg/3mg, 1mg/3mg/6mg). Each group adopted a dose titration method, with subcutaneous injection once a week for 12 consecutive weeks.

The safety profile of UBT251 was consistent with incretin-based therapies. In the highest dose group, the average weight of the people who completed the trial decreased by 15.1% from baseline, while the average weight of people in the placebo group increased by 1.5% from baseline.

“We are pleased to announce our exclusive license agreement with Novo Nordisk for UBT251. As a leading global biopharmaceutical company, Novo Nordisk holds a strong position in the treatment of chronic diseases,” said Mr. Tsoi Hoi Shan, the Chairman of TUL. “TUL is committed to strengthening its presence in the treatment of chronic diseases, including endocrine and metabolic disorders, while actively expanding its footprint in global markets. We believe that Novo Nordisk’s expertise will play a key role in accelerating the global development of UBT251.”

The closing of this transaction is subject to applicable regulatory clearance and other customary closing conditions.

UBT251 is a long-acting synthetic peptide triple agonist targeting the receptors for GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and glucagon. It has demonstrated potent activity on all three receptors in a preclinical setting.

UBT251 is categorized as a Class 1 innovative drug in China, being developed by United Biotechnology for multiple indications. To date, UBT251 has been approved for clinical trials in China in adult type 2 diabetes, overweight or obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD), and for clinical trials in the United States in adult type 2 diabetes, overweight or obesity, and CKD.

United Biotechnology recently initiated a phase 2 trial for UBT251 in people with overweight or obesity in China.